Ex-NY state trooper shot himself, falsely claimed he was wounded by unknown gunman: prosecutors

A former New York state trooper, Thomas Mascia, was arrested and charged for shooting himself in the leg and falsely reporting that he was wounded by an unknown gunman. He allegedly planted shell casings at the scene and was charged with official misconduct, tampering with evidence, and falsifying documents. Mascia resigned from the force and his parents were also charged in connection with the incident. Prosecutors said Mascia’s actions were a deceptive attempt to gain sympathy, while his lawyer stated that he has been suffering from untreated mental health issues. Mascia claimed he was shot by a driver in a black sedan, leading to a manhunt that lasted several days.